Preventing Interior Water Damage in the Winter: Essential Tips for Homeowners | SERVPRO of New Center/Highland Park

As winter settles in and temperatures begin to drop, homeowners face unique challenges when it comes to protecting their homes. One of the most common yet often overlooked issues during the colder months is water damage. Frozen pipes, ice dams, and excess moisture from snow and ice can cause significant interior water damage, leading to costly repairs and potential mold growth. Understanding how to prevent interior water damage in the winter is crucial for safeguarding your home. Here are three key tips to help you avoid winter-related water damage.

Insulate Your Pipes to Prevent Freezing

One of the most frequent causes of water damage in the winter is frozen pipes. When temperatures dip below freezing, the water inside pipes can freeze, causing the pipes to expand and potentially burst. A burst pipe can lead to significant flooding, especially if it occurs within the walls or ceilings of your home.

To prevent frozen pipes, it’s essential to insulate any exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, attics, garages, or crawl spaces. Foam pipe insulation sleeves are inexpensive and easy to install, offering a protective layer against the cold. Additionally, allow your faucets to drip slowly on extremely cold nights. This small action can keep the water moving inside the pipes, reducing the likelihood of freezing.

In areas where freezing is a significant concern, consider applying heat tape or cables to pipes, which can provide additional warmth to prevent them from freezing. If you plan to be away from home during the winter, make sure to keep your thermostat set to a temperature no lower than 55°F to avoid freezing pipes.

Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clean and Clear

Another common cause of water damage in winter is ice dams, which occur when snow on the roof melts, but the water refreezes at the roof’s edge, creating a barrier. This blockage causes water to back up under the shingles and can lead to leaks inside the home, damaging walls, ceilings, and insulation. To prevent ice dams, make sure your gutters and downspouts are free of debris like leaves and twigs.

Clogged gutters prevent water from draining properly, causing it to pool on the roof and contributing to ice dam formation. Clean your gutters before the first snow and ensure that downspouts are directed away from the foundation of your home. You can also install heated cables along the roof’s edge to help prevent the formation of ice dams, allowing water to flow freely off the roof.

Seal Gaps and Insulate Your Home

Cold drafts and moisture seepage can also lead to water damage during the winter months. Gaps and cracks in windows, doors, and the foundation allow cold air and moisture to enter, increasing the likelihood of water damage. By properly sealing these openings, you can create a barrier that keeps cold air, snow, and rain outside where they belong.

Start by checking for drafts around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps you find. Don’t forget to inspect your attic and crawl spaces for any signs of air leaks. Adequate insulation in these areas will not only keep your home warm but also help prevent moisture from accumulating inside your home, which can lead to mold and mildew growth.

Proper insulation is essential for maintaining a stable temperature inside your home. A well-insulated attic can prevent heat from escaping through the roof, which can cause snow to melt prematurely and lead to ice dams. Insulating walls and floors can also help reduce the chances of pipes freezing, protecting your home from both water damage and high energy bills.

Protect Your Home from Winter Water Damage

Preventing interior water damage in the winter takes preparation and regular maintenance, but the effort is well worth it to avoid costly repairs. By insulating pipes, cleaning gutters, and sealing gaps in your home, you can reduce the risk of water damage during the cold season. If you do experience water damage, don’t hesitate to call the experts at SERVPRO of New Center/Highland Park. Our team is here to provide fast, reliable water damage restoration services and help you get your home back to normal.

Contact us today to learn more about our winter water damage prevention tips and how we can assist you with any restoration needs. Stay safe and dry this winter!